The Best of the French Riviera: Carnaval de Nice and Fête du Citron!

 

THE RIVIERA CHAPTER of DEMOCRATS ABROAD FRANCE

invites you to join us in the south of France for the

 Best of the Riviera – Carnaval de Nice and Fête du Citron in Menton! 

 

When: Valentine's Weekend - Friday February 13 and Saturday February 14, 2026

 

What: An enchanting and joyous weekend curated to ensure you experience the best of the French Riviera. Our weekend includes a Friday night apero followed by dinner at a classic Niçois restaurant; Saturday bus transportation to Menton for the spectacular exhibition of citrus structures, followed lunch by the harbor; and then the pièce de résistance—the dazzling and unforgettable opening parade of Carnaval 2026 on Saturday night!

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Friday Night: Apero and Dinner in Nice (February 13)

Let’s kick off the weekend with an apero before we stroll down the Cours Saleya to a classic Niçois restaurant for a multi-course dinner and wine.  It’s the perfect time to get to know your fellow Democrats Abroad members joining in the festivities of the weekend.

 

Saturday Morning: Fête du Citron in Menton (February 14)

We’ll board a bus this morning for the one-hour scenic drive to Menton, France, close to the Italian border.  Be prepared for the mind-blowing fantasy world of the Fête du Citron with the exhibition of gigantic citrus sculptures.  We will then wander leisurely through the picturesque streets of Menton towards the harbor where we’ll enjoy a multi-course lunch at a waterfront restaurant.  We’ll return by bus to Nice mid-afternoon where you’ll have time on your own to explore this vibrant city or relax before the final event this evening.

 

Saturday Night: Opening Night Spectacle, Carnaval de Nice (February 14)

The highlight of our weekend awaits! From our assigned seats in the grandstands, witness the opening ceremonies of the Nice Carnaval 2026 which will celebrate women with the theme "Long Live the Queen!". This dazzling parade features massive, vibrant floats, masked performers, and music filling the air—it’s pure magic. After dark, the lights come alive, turning the streets into a fairy-tale wonderland. 

 

More about the 2026 Carnaval theme:  The decision to focus on a queen for the 2026 carnival represents a symbolic change in the event's narrative, emphasizing the importance of female empowerment and recognition. Mayor Christian Estrosi has expressed a desire to celebrate feminine power through this ambitious theme, which will honor notable female figures, such as Olympe de Gouges, Anne Frank, Joséphine Baker, and Marie Curie, while also highlighting contemporary issues faced by women, such as the plight of Afghan women. 

 

All this for a donation of $230 per person 

 

Proceeds will benefit Democrats Abroad France’s efforts to help U.S. citizens living abroad vote and support democracy.

Does not include your transportation to or your lodging in Nice

All donations are non-refundable.

 

Upon RSVPing, our local experts can provide suggestions on hotels, restaurants, local transportation, and activities. We hope you’ll spend a few days before or after our event in this beautiful, interesting region.

 

Limited spots available, so don’t delay! Click the RSVP button below to confirm your spot.

We can’t wait to share this Best of the Riviera experience with you!

   

WHEN

Friday, February 13, 2026 at 05:00 PM Paris Time February 15, 2026

WHERE

Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
France
Google map and directions

CONTACT

Nancy Toolan

10 RSVPs